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When did you realize you were really in labor?
After walking, and walking, and walking all day it attempt to kick start my labor, I decided to relax with my husband, watching an old Seinfeld episode on the couch one evening. In the middle of the episode I felt and heard an audible popping sound. I was so caught off guard and surprised. I stood up and sure enough, my water had broken! I was amazed at how it felt just like what I had expected - a popping balloon. I looked at my husband with such excitement. Within minutes, my contractions began (fast & furious as a matter of fact-- when we arrived at the hospital I was already 10 cm dilated and ready to push!).
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging part of having a natural birth is having the right support. I did not have many friends of family who had a natural birth and it was difficult to be surrounded by so many stories of pain, fear, and discouragement. I really had to do a lot of my own research in order to begin to plan and prepare for not only a natural birth, but a natural pregnancy as well. Thankfully, my husband was very supportive and we were able to find not only a Midwife Center that aligned with our goals, but a birth class as well.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The most helpful things I did to prepare for childbirth was read and take the Hypnobirthing course, get weekly chiropractic adjustments, drink red raspberry leaf tea daily, and pray (using the book Supernatural Childbirth as a guide). The books really helped dispel fear and in turn replace it with a confidence that our bodies are made to birth: we are capable and strong. The positive reminders helped turn my anxious thoughts into an empowered, confident mindset towards birth. The adjustments and tea helped my body be in the best physical shape it could be to support my natural birth. These mental and physical preparations were certainly the most influential in helping me to have such a wonderful birth experience.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The most surprising thing about my birth was how much I enjoyed it! Even though it was an intense, emotional experience, it was such a bonding moment for my husband and I, producing such a joyful memory! I felt so supported, loved, and encouraged by my husband, midwife, and nurse and internally I felt so strong and confident. I could not get over how beautifully our bodies are designed to do such an amazing feat: grow, birth, and nurture a new little life!
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Our bodies are made to grow and birth babies! You are capable and strong! Our mind is powerful and if we can focus on the positive, we free our bodies to do what they are created to do!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The Hypnobirthing class highlighted several strategies that helped me with pain relief including their relaxation scripts, breathing, and visualizing techniques. I labored primarily at home and being in the shower with hot water on my back provided a great relief. Additionally, I used a variety of essential oils both aromatically and topically.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up delivering in the "traditional" on my back, legs held, breathing into each contraction position.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Holding my son for the first time was the most joyous moment of my life thus far. I remember looking at him and feeling a sense of familiarity, almost as if we had already known each other. I was so happy to have my husband by my side. Our family was complete.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
My advice would be to put fear aside! Our bodies are made to grow and birth babies! You are capable and strong! Our mind is powerful and if we can focus on the positive, we free our bodies to do what they are created to do! Aside from that, it is so very important to find the right care provider and birth class that supports your goals to go natural. Be educated, feel empowered!
